Public Statements

Press Release

overnor Lincoln D. Chafee today announced the thirty-eight members of the America's Cup World Series Host Committee. The Committee, established when Governor Chafee signed Executive Order 11-11 last month, will coordinate Rhode Island's efforts to ensure a successful event. Brad Read, Executive Director of Sail Newport, will serve as Chairman.

The AC World Series will take place June 23 -- July 1, 2012 in Newport. The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) has estimated that the event could create hundreds of new jobs and pump more than $70 million into the state's economy.

"The America's Cup World Series races have great potential to bring job creation and revenue to Rhode Island," Governor Chafee said. "This Host Committee, led by Newporter and renowned sailor Brad Read, will help to coordinate important preparation efforts to ensure that this exciting event is thoroughly successful. Its members have strong ties to the sailing world, marine trades, hospitality and tourism, and a number of other relevant fields. What they all share is an understanding of what it will take to make the AC World Series a success for Newport and the State of Rhode Island."